OUR local rodeo queens and competitors were blown away by the bright and bubbly Miss Rodeo America Kelli Jackson after meeting her in Warwick yesterday.

It was a proud moment for the Rose City to have the American ambassador visit the town.

The Daily News caught up with Miss Jackson at the Rodeo Heritage Centre where she told us how she wished her schedule allowed her to take in the Warwick Rodeo.

“I’ve had a fantastic time in Australia,” she said. “It’s my first time here and everywhere I have visited is been so great, I really couldn’t pick my favourite part.

“Australian rodeos are very similar to those in the US. The events are all pretty much the same except we don’t have break-away roping. In both countries you really do see wonderfully talented cowboys compete.”

Miss Jackson started her two-week tour in Mt Isa before travelling to Cairns, Darwin, the Gold Coast, and eventually to Warwick.

“I went to the rodeo in Mt Isa. I really wish my schedule had allowed me to come to the Warwick Rodeo.”

She said after travelling extensively in the States, her packed schedule didn’t faze her and that she was used to living out of a suitcase.

Miss Jackson, who has a degree in history and political science as well as being a competent horsewoman, leaves the country tomorrow with a promise to return.

Her adoring fans, including Rodeo Administrator for the Australian Professional Rodeo Association, Steve Hilton, will be pleased to hear of her plans.

Mr Hilton sang the rodeo queen’s praises.

He said, “It’s been really great to have her here. At the rodeos she attended she received a lot of praise and it’s been great for our Miss Rodeo competitors to get a little bit of inspiration from her.

“She’s a great ambassador for the sport and for her country.”